Timber Lake Dam, also known as Tanbark Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Swansea, Illinois.
Wind
Humidity
Situated along the Trib Wolf Branch river, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 100 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate controlled by an uncontrolled spillway.
Managed and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Timber Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its condition assessment of "Not Available" as of the last inspection in June 2018. Despite the moderate risk level assigned to it, the dam lacks an emergency action plan (EAP) and updates on emergency contacts and inundation maps. With a three-year inspection frequency and no outlet gates for control, the risk management measures for this dam remain unspecified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Timber Lake Dam offers a compelling case study in the intersection of private ownership, state regulation, and infrastructure management. Its role in flood risk reduction underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability. As the dam continues to be inspected and regulated by the IDNR, ongoing efforts to assess and address its condition and risk profile will be crucial in safeguarding the surrounding community and water resources.
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WOLF BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |